Experiential Learning Theory
Experiential learning is the theory of learning by doing. The term was coined in 1984 by David Kolb, an American psychologist, professor and education theorist.
The theory outlined learning as a four-stage process:
Concrete learning: The learner has an experience.
Reflective Observation: The learner reflects on the experience.
Abstract Conceptualisation: The person learns from what they’ve experienced. They gain a new perspective or idea from it.
Active Experimentation: The learner applies their newly created or modified ideas to the world around them to see what happens.
So what does this mean?
To many, Kolb’s theory will seem intuitive. For example, consider the process of learning how to drive a car. There is, of course, learning the theory and a strict need to understand the highway code. But then, there is the learning by experience.
No one expects you to pass your driving test without experiencing how to drive first. Understand what it feels like to change gears, brake gently and check your blind spots are all key components in knowing how to drive. Similarly, reflecting on where things went well or badly in the lesson, how to learn from these reflections and putting these into practice the next time you get behind the wheel.
Experiential learning is a cycle, you are constantly learning and reflecting and adjusting. One driving lesson does not give sufficient experience to be able to pass (in fact, according to the DVSA, it takes most people 45 hours of lessons and 22 hours of practice to learn how to drive).
We can understand his model using this example:
Concrete learning: Practising how to parallel park for the first time.
Reflective observation: It looks easier than it is. I found lining up the car difficult and need to work on straightening up when in the space.
Abstract conceptualisation: My instructor taught me X, Y and Z to help. I’ll use these ideas next time.
Active experimentation: Last time I struggled with certain aspects. Now I’m in the car again, I’ll remember where I struggled and practise implementing X, Y and Z. I need to practise a few more times to get it right.
Perhaps someone wants to improve their Microsoft Excel skills. They can watch videos, read blogs, and even attend a seminar, but really, they are unlikely to improve until they start practising themselves. In truth, as in Kolb’s cycle, the true learning comes from the constant learning. To really improve at Microsoft Excel, they will need to continually practice what they are learning, until it is embedded.
How to Use Experiential Learning to boost my career?
Experiential learning in the workplace provides opportunities of putting yourself “in the shoes” of the role you want to be in. It allows the learner to be immersed in the work environment and therefore acquire and apply the skills needed in that particular career and complete hands-on projects directly related to that profession.
According to Oxford learning college, an estimated 20% of the workforce in the UK will be significantly under-skilled for their jobs by 2030. Additionally, around 40% of current workers in the UK don’t have the right qualifications for their job.
Experiential learning is key in developing relevant skills to the job that you want. This method of education is one of the best ways to identify the specific skillset in your dream career and master it, by continuous practice.
What can experiential learning in the workplace look like?
Internships
Secondments
Stretch assignments
Mentorships
Volunteering
Apprenticeships
Traineeships
Skills Bootcamps
Project-based learning
Business simulations
Immersions
Tips for using experiential learning to boost your career:
Enrol on training and courses. This could be funded through your employer, by yourself or any of the vast array of free courses provided online. Check out Free Courses in England (theskillsnetwork.com) for some ideas. Look for any opportunities to apply your learnings to your job.
Get hands-on experience. Can you help out someone in a different team who has the skills you want? Is it possible to organise a formal secondment, or helping out where you have the time? Alternatively, consider volunteering outside of work or organising an internship to get the experience you want.
Network. Speak to people who have the skills you need, whether that’s a quick coffee with a friend of a friend or engaging in LinkedIn discussions. People are generally happy to help, and they may provide you with unique insight into the profession you are interested in.
In summary, learning by experience is one of the best ways to develop the crucial skills you need for your career. By regular practising, you will be able to develop your skills in an effective way. There are lots of ways to boost your career using experiential learning, and it can help make sure your skills match the job you want!
References
Applying Experiential Learning to Career Development Training for Biomedical Graduate Students and Postdocs: Perspectives on Program Development and Design | CBE—Life Sciences Education (lifescied.org)
